Sendang Sono

Sendangsono lies on the slope of Menoreh mountain range, Kulon Progo regency, some 40 kilometers northwest of Yogyakarta. The word "Sendang" means a spring whereas "Sono" is the name of giant tree. Thus, Sendangsono means a spring under a Sono tree. It is considered to be the holy place for the Catholics, and it can be regarded as the Lourdes of South-east Asia. During May and October, the holy months of Holy Marie, queen of Heaven.

Thousand of people from many different regions of Indonesia and even from abroad visit Sendangsono making their pilgrimage. From the main road they to make their way on foot up the hill through a narrow path for about 3 kilometers until they come to Promasan church. The next 2 kilometers path between Promasan up to Sendangsono complex, is called the "Crucifixion Path" where people either individually or in groups will pray the rosary along this path. At Sendangsono they take some water from the spring, put in bottles or other containers, place them under the statue of Holy Marie, and by the glimmering light of hundreds of candles they solemnly say their prayers to glory God the almighty through Holy Marie. They usually keep the water as useful means of well being believing that the purified water of Sendangsono will bring peace and it can be used to heal diseases or to purity a certain place.

The way leading to Sendangsono is a winding path with valleys and green hills alongside. The environment at Sendangsono itself is very pleasant with shady trees creating a cool and calm atmosphere for the visitors